5 Steps to Safely Sell Your Silver-Plated Candelabra on Chairish

Your 5-Step Guide to a Secure P2P Sale on Chairish

Selling unique items like silver-plated candelabras on peer-to-peer platforms like Chairish offers a great way to reach discerning buyers. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential scams to ensure a smooth and secure transaction. Follow these five steps to protect yourself and your valuable items.

Step 1: Accurate and Detailed Listing

Provide comprehensive details about your silver-plated candelabra. Include its dimensions, material composition (clarifying it's silver-plated, not solid sterling silver), any maker's marks or hallmarks, and its condition. Be honest about any imperfections. Upload high-quality photos from multiple angles, showcasing any intricate details or potential wear. This transparency helps build trust and deters potential issues like "Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait" by clearly stating the item's authenticity.

Step 2: Vetting Potential Buyers

Before agreeing to a sale, review the buyer's profile. Look for established accounts with positive reviews. Be wary of buyers who are overly eager, pressuring you for a quick sale, or asking to move the transaction off-platform. Scammers often use urgency to bypass security measures. Be cautious of buyers who insist on specific, unusual payment methods outside of Chairish's secure system, which can be a sign of "The 'Payment via Check' Trap."

Step 3: Secure Payment and Shipping

Always use Chairish's integrated payment system to process transactions. This provides a layer of security and recourse if issues arise. For high-value items like antique candelabras, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for ID verification of both buyer and seller. For shipping, opt for a reputable carrier and consider "White-Glove Shipping" services if available and affordable, ensuring careful handling. Document the shipping process with photos and tracking information. Be aware of "White-Glove Shipping Surcharge" scams where the fee is inflated or non-existent; confirm all costs upfront.

Step 4: Beware of Phishing and Account Takeover Attempts

Scammers may try to gain access to your account or personal information. Be vigilant against "Account Takeover via Phish" attempts, where you might receive fake emails or messages directing you to log in to a fraudulent site. Never click on suspicious links or provide login credentials outside of the official Chairish platform. If you receive an unsolicited message claiming to be from Chairish support, verify it by contacting them directly through their official channels.

Step 5: Manage Communication and Disputes

Keep all communication within the Chairish messaging system. If a dispute arises, document everything and contact Chairish support immediately. Be wary of any attempts to pressure you into accepting partial refunds or to resolve issues offline, which can be a precursor to "Insurance Claim Extortion" if the item is damaged in transit and the scammer tries to extort additional funds.